This weekend I went pumpkin-picking to get in the Halloween mood.Unfortunately, dogs weren’t allowed at the pumpkin patch, but my pups will get to help carve by cleaning the tasty pumpkin insides, which also doubles as a healthy treat.This year, while looking for carving tips, I found patterns for dog lovers.

Inspired by the American Kennel Club’s list of top breeds, Better Homes and Gardens’ art director, Diane Starkey, designed 13 canine pumpkin carving stencils. Best of all, they’re available for free on the BHG website, complete with carving tips.

The website allows you to vote for your favorite design and even create your own pumpkin stencil. If your favorite breed is missing, they’re also taking input for next year. I’m hoping for a Sheltie!In the meantime, I’m going to start with the Jack Russell Terrier design.

Check out The Bark's story and video demo on carving dog-o-lanterns (October, 2008) by Terri Hardin, an artist and sculptor. Every Halloween, Hardin sculpts pumpkins and teaches others to sculpt them too.

JoAnna Lou is a New York City-based researcher, writer and agility enthusiast.